Collection: Zucari
Species: African Serval (Leptailurus serval)
DOB: July 2, 2015
Sex: Male
Arrival Date: December 28, 2023
Rescue Story: In 2023, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) took in 34 cats from Big Cat Rescue, an accredited Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) sanctuary in Tampa, FL. Big Cat Rescue (BCR) was founded in 1992 to safeguard the world's exotic wildcat species through a multifaceted approach with conservation efforts to protect them in captivity and their natural habitats. BCR championed the fight on Capitol Hill, which aided in passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act in December of 2022. With united missions, BCR and TCWR have collaborated in rescuing exotic animals nationally, and both are founding members of the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance (BCSA). BCR has been a leader in captive wildlife advocacy for over 30 years, and with the new Act passed in Congress, its mission has shifted to focus on conservation efforts in the wild. BCR approached TCWR in 2023 about relocating their remaining animals to the beautiful Ozarks. TCWR broke ground on the new habitat expansion, Freedom Field, in 2023, where BCR animals will reside. Zucari is one of the 34 cats relocated from BCR.
Original Rescue Story: In 2017, the Ohio Department of Agriculture learned about a breeding facility illegally possessing exotic small wildcats. Zucari’s entire story is unknown due to the lack of information shared with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. However, it is suspected that he lived with up to 15 other cats in hopes of continuing to create exotic hybrid wildcat species. The Ohio Department of Agriculture found Zucari living in a basement with limited light and outside access.
Original Rescue Story: In 2017, the Ohio Department of Agriculture learned about a breeding facility illegally possessing exotic small wildcats. Zucari’s entire story is unknown due to the lack of information shared with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. However, it is suspected that he lived with up to 15 other cats in hopes of continuing to create exotic hybrid wildcat species. The Ohio Department of Agriculture found Zucari living in a basement with limited light and outside access.
Zucari arrived at BCR with Cyrus and Chaos, two caracals, and was given a routine veterinary exam that included neutering and receiving preventative vaccinations. TCWR looks forward to providing a lifelong home to this younger African Serval.
